It is not only unique and wonderful natural phenomena that intrigue visitors to this, the second largest island in Europe, which lies close to the Arctic Circle northwest of Scotland and south of Greenland. The hardy Icelandic people, descendants of ancient Norsemen and Celts, are intriguing too, having spawned what is now renowned as the oldest surviving parliament in the world (called the 'Althing'), founded in 930AD, and boasting a much-revered literary heritage of the best medieval works, mostly based on historic heroic sagas.

Most of the country's popular tourist features are in the south of the island near the capital, Reykjavik, in the region known as 'The Golden Circle'. Top of the list for scenic splendour is the Gullfoss double-tiered waterfall, set off with a brilliant rainbow, and the spouting hot springs of Geysir.

Reykjavik means 'smoky', but in the case of Iceland's pristine capital (which is Europe's most northerly capital city) the smoke is not smog, but rather steam from the underground springs that warm the city. Reykjavik has a well-deserved reputation for being the cleanest, most invigorating city in Europe, where the standard of living is one of the highest in the world. The city may be small, but it is full of interesting attractions from galleries and museums to thermal bathing spots, and the nightlife is second to none.

What else is there to do and see in Iceland? Well, how about whale-watching; chic fine dining; hiking the highlands; viewing Europe's largest glacier Vatnajokull; fishing the rivers; taming one of the great wild Icelandic horses, river-rafting; exploring on a snow-scooter; shopping for designer wear, souvenirs and gourmet foods; joining the descendants of the Vikings in the Summer Solstice Festival at Hafnarfjorour; visit the northerly island of Grimsey to cross the Arctic Circle; visiting the recreated medieval farm at Stong.

Iceland Passport & Visa Requirements

Entry requirements for Americans: United States citizens require a valid passport, but no visa is required for a stay of up to three months. That period begins when entering any of the following countries which are parties to the Schengen agreement: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain and Sweden.
Entry requirements for UK nationals: British citizens require a valid passport, but no visa is required for a stay of up to three months if holding a British passport, endorsed British Citizen, British National Overseas or British Overseas Territories Citizen. In all other cases, a visa is required.
Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadians require a passport, valid until after 3 months of intended stay in Iceland. No visa is required for a stay of up to three months.
Entry requirements for Australians: Australians require a valid passport, but no visa is required for a stay of up to three months.
Entry requirements for South Africans: South Africans must have a valid passport and a Schengen visa is required.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders: New Zealand citizens require a valid passport, but no visa is required for a stay of up to three months.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish citizens require a valid passport, but no visa is required for a stay of up to three months.
Passport/Visa Note: All visitors to Iceland require a passport valid for at least three months after their intended stay. Return or onward tickets, all documents for the next destination and sufficient funds are necessary for entry into the country. Iceland is party to the Schengen Agreement together with Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Greece, Holland, Italy, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and Germany. The agreement, in principal, allows for travel between these countries on a multiple entry Schengen Visa.

Note: Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. Travellers are advised to check their entry requirements with their embassy or consulate.